GB216635A - An improved amusement device - Google Patents

Abstract

216,635. Tayler, R. M., and Leonard, S. April 12, 1923. No Patent granted (Sealing fee not paid). Race games, mechanical.-A pedal-actuated device for use in competitions between several players or for use as a training device for track racing, and of the kind comprising a miniature race track round which a number of models of small cycles or other devices are carried, each being driven individually by gearing or other articulation from one of a series of pedal-actuated cycles or the like, is characterized by the provision of means for automatically and simultaneously disengaging all the models from their driving connections at the moment when the first model has reached the winning post. The cycles 2 of the competitors are connected by chain gearing to a series of sprocket wheels 23 each gearing with an endless chain 24 to which a racing model 3 is attached. The gear ratios are arranged so that all the models complete a circuit of the track for the same number of revolutions of the competitors' cycle pedals. When the leading model has reached the winning post 36, one of a series of electricall contacts 37 is engaged by the model, and all the sprocket wheels 23 are automatically thrown out of gear with the chains 24, thus arresting all the models. Mechanical devices may be used instead of electrical. To permit the disengagement of the sprocket wheels 23 universal couplings are introduced into their driving shafts and the bearings for the sprocket ends of the driving shafts are pivoted, so that the wheels may be drawn out of mesh with the chains. The track is preferably formed as a series of channels made up of angle irons 26, Fig. 5, bent to the curva.- ture of the track. The angle irons form guides for the chains 24, and blocks 25 keep the chains in engagement with the sprocket wheels 23. The model 3 is connected to the chain 24 by a stem 33 provided with a roller 29. Instead of sprocket wheels 23 friction rollers may be used. An additional series of sprocket wheels or friction rollers operated by hand may be provided for returning the models after a race. The parts may be proportioned so that each racing model completes one circuit, whilst the periphery of the corresponding cycle wheel travels one mile or other definite distance. A timing clock started and stopped automatically at the beginning and finish of the race may be provided. The identification mark of the winner may be automatically indicated on a board.